So, you've encountered the majestic, yet terrifying, Basilisk in ARK: Survival Evolved and you're ready to add this powerful creature to your army? Taming a Basilisk isn't a walk in the park – it requires strategy, patience, and a good understanding of its behavior. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your success.
Understanding the Basilisk
Before we dive into the taming process, let's familiarize ourselves with the Basilisk's key characteristics:
- High Damage Output: The Basilisk boasts incredibly high damage, making it a formidable asset in combat.
- Petrifying Gaze: Its most distinctive feature is its petrifying gaze, capable of turning enemies to stone. This is both a boon and a bane during taming.
- Poisonous Bite: In addition to its gaze, the Basilisk also inflicts poison damage with its bite.
- Location: Typically found in swamp and cave environments, often near water sources.
Preparing for the Tame
Taming a Basilisk requires meticulous preparation. Here's what you'll need:
- High-Level Creatures: You'll need strong mounts to protect you from the Basilisk's attacks and other hostile creatures in its environment. Think high-level Rexes, Therizinos, or even a well-equipped Ankylosaurus for defense.
- Tranquilizer Arrows/Darts: A substantial supply is crucial, as the Basilisk has a high torpor resistance. High-quality tranquilizer ammo will significantly speed up the process.
- Kibble: Exceptional Kibble (usually made with Megalania eggs) is the preferred taming food for Basilisks. This significantly speeds up the taming process. Alternatively, Raw Meat is a possible but far slower option.
- Armor: Protecting yourself from the Basilisk's attacks is paramount. High-level armor will increase your chances of survival.
- Ghillie Suit: A Ghillie suit will help you approach the Basilisk undetected.
The Taming Process: Step-by-Step
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Find Your Target: Locate a Basilisk in its natural habitat. Remember, they are often found near water sources in swampy areas or caves.
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Prepare Your Mounts and Position Yourself: Position your mounts strategically so they can protect you from the Basilisk's attacks and any other threats.
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Engage and Use Tranquilizers: Begin attacking the Basilisk with your ranged weapons, focusing on firing tranquilizer darts or arrows to knock it out. Avoid getting too close! Its petrifying gaze is extremely effective at close range. Use your mounts to distract the Basilisk while you shoot.
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Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance during the taming process. The Basilisk's attacks can be deadly, even for well-equipped players.
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Feed Your Prey: Once the Basilisk is unconscious, quickly feed it the Exceptional Kibble. This will maximize your taming effectiveness. If you are using Raw Meat, it will take significantly longer.
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Monitor Torpor: Continuously monitor the Basilisk's torpor level. If it wakes up prematurely, repeat the process.
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Patience is Key: Taming a Basilisk takes time and patience. Be prepared for a prolonged engagement.
Post-Taming Care
After successfully taming your Basilisk, ensure you provide adequate care:
- Food: Continue providing it with its preferred food.
- Health: Regularly check its health and address any injuries.
- Training: Train your Basilisk to follow commands. Its abilities are incredibly useful in combat.
Conclusion
Taming a Basilisk in ARK: Survival Evolved presents a significant challenge, but the reward of having this powerful creature in your arsenal is well worth the effort. By carefully following the steps outlined above and preparing thoroughly, you’ll significantly improve your chances of successfully taming this magnificent beast. Good luck, and happy taming!